April Fools' Day dates back to 1582! Some historians believe that April Fool's Day began when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, as called for by the Council of Trent in 1563. People who failed to get the news of this change, were celebrating January 1 during the last week of March through April 1. Therefore, they were the butt of jokes and hoaxes.

Some historians also link April Fools' Day to ancient festivals in Rome, such as Hilaria. People would dress up in disguises to celebrate.

The day has been celebrated by many different cultures for several centuries. Some speculate that the day is tied to the vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. Mother nature fooled people by the changing, unpredictable weather.

In the 18th century, April Fools' Day spread throughout Britain. Scotland's tradition was a two-day event. People were sent on phony errands (Hunting the Gowk") and was followed by Tailie Day. Pranks were played on people's derrieres, such as pinning fake tails or "kick me" signs on them.

Today, people playing April Fool jokes expose their prank by shouting "April fool". Some newspapers, magazines and other published media report fake stories, which are usually explained the next day or below the news section in small letters. Although popular since the 19th century, the day is not a public holiday in any country.​